Lavender, and Sweet Dreams

Lavender has a delightful floral, yet clean scent. It brings back memories of childhood play and driving on the countryside. This is probably its most sought after trait. It is for me. But, did you know that it has health benefits? People use lavender in many ways to promote good health and well-being.

The word lavender comes from the Latin verb lavare which means to wash. There are records from the first century A.D. that praised the medicinal attributes of lavender. It’s history is filled with claims of healing as well as its uses as perfume.

Presently, many studies support some of its therapeutic and curative properties, ranging from relaxation to treating infections, burns, insect bites, to helping with neurological disorders. 

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is an alternative form of holistic therapy that uses essential oils to help improve and balance us both emotionally and physically. One improvement using lavender is noted in sleep. Many studies cite that it is most useful in improving one’s sleep.

One such study by Li-Wei Chien,  Su Li Cheng, and Chi Feng Liu  reported that women receiving aromatherapy using lavender for 12 weeks experienced a significant improvement in sleep quality after intervention. 

Gastrointestinal Lavender

Gilani AH and others wrote that the Lavandula stoechas, a type of lavender exhibits anticonvulsant and antispasmodic properties. This is great news for those suffering from the common symptoms of IBS that range from abdominal cramping, fecal urgency, and diarrhea. They find that it may be due to its calcium channel blocking property. More studies are definitely warranted! 

Using lavender oil is also beneficial for menstrual cramps. In a placebo-controlled study on 85 nurses with dysmenorrhea, a 3% solution of lavender, rose, and clary sage was  applied to the abdomen.¹ The mixture reduced the symptoms.

Massage

Another use is as a body oil during massage for the relief of muscle or joint pain. Besides its antispasmodic properties, the oil is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and detoxifying properties. Add these to its calming effects and your massage will go from perfect to celestial!

Aaaah, Lavender

There is so much to cover when it comes to this decadent oil. I go into my own little world with just a faint smell. So, let me give you a quick list of all of its uses and benefits:

• Helps to heal minor burns and bug bites,  add to a compress
• Calming fragrance, my favorite, burn it as incense around the house
• Useful for treating anxiety and depression, depression needs more research
• Consume as a tea for upset stomaches and other digestive problems, look into this one for the right combination and dosage amount
• Helps relieve pain from headaches and toothaches, add to a compress
• Could be effective in combating fungal infections
• Possibly effective for treating alopecia, research this one
• Combats stress at the end of the day, add to your bath or shower
• Massage on your skin for beauty, mix it with water, not straight
• Dentist anxiety, take some with you on your next visit

Research from the medical experts is mixed. Make sure you do your research and always buy your oils from reputable merchants. There are so many to look into!

And, don’t forget: I am not a doctor. My input is from my own personal experience and years of research. Do not use instead of medical advice!

SO, WHAT DO YOU THINK?

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